It started with a bang! And then I was whisked away into Japanese Breakfast’s beautiful music. Playing at the Regency Ballroom on Friday, October 1st Michelle Zauner aka Japanese Breakfast along with her opener Luna Li stunned San Francisco with their incredible talent.
Luna Li was an incredible choice for an opener. The artist was bouncing around the stage with a constant smile on her face. Towards the end of her set, she played a few songs for us from her instrumental EP bringing the crowd into this sense of calmness that I had never felt before. She then transitioned to a looped performance with her violin and newly purchased butterfly guitar that made the crowd go wild.
Michelle’s stage presence was both electrifying and calming. In fact, Japanese Breakfast’s set felt like this the entire time they were on stage. It’s that feeling you get when you surf the perfect wave or drive down a narrow path through the mountains; that exhilaration while surrounded by tranquility. It was the perfect mix. Everyone in the crowd was at peace. Rarely a phone in sight – just a crowd of people enjoying the moment with their friends and partners.
Starting her set with “Paprika”, the first song on her newest album Jubilee, was the perfect introduction. Michelle’s high energy mixed with the rhythmic bang of the gong had awakened everyone in the crowd. The rest of the show was an easy listen just like the album. It’s truly a sight seeing these songs come to life in front of your very eyes.
Overall, this was an incredible show. I was excited to see that Japanese Breakfast will be playing in Berkeley in early November for those who didn’t get a chance to see this San Francisco show. Be sure to grab a ticket and experience this incredible tour by clicking the link below!
Japanese Breakfast